College costs continue to rise, and the maze of required fees versus the funds you have available can be a little disturbing. You may feel like you don’t have anything left over for frills.
But the good news is, there are cheap and easy ways to turn your dorm room into an attractive and cozy home. Whether you’re looking ahead to your freshman year or just want to give your dorm room a spring makeover before finals, below are five tips for decorating your dorm room without breaking the bank.
Rearrange your furniture
Perhaps the layout of your dorm room may remind you of a hotel room. Hotel rooms are designed to be efficient and comfortable, but not much else. There may be better ways to express your particular needs.
Try different layouts to find the one that’s most comfortable. Putting the beds and desks in parallel formation will give your room symmetry and balance. Placing the bed in a perpendicular position opens up more floor space for activities such as yoga.
Stacking book shelves on the desk opens more floor space. Invest in a pouf, and you can put your feet up no matter where you sit.
Maximize the storage
Storing possessions in boxes under the bed is a dorm-room tradition. If you raise the bed on crates, you’ll create even more room.
Turn the bed into a loft, and you can move your desk over and make a study space underneath. Stacking shelves and storage units to the ceiling makes good use of space that’s less accessible.
Indulge in mood lighting
Overhead fluorescent lighting can be pretty uninspiring. Soften the fluorescent lights by covering them with fabric pinned to the ceiling. Use off-white fabric for a neutral effect.
Experiment with colorfully patterned fabrics for a more casual, fun look. Scatter several small desk lamps around for a more intimate feel and late-night studying that won’t disturb your roommates.
Create a place for your electronics
Whether you sit at the desk or on your bed to work on the computer, you can create a study nest for yourself. On your desk or bedside table, collect pencil holders and mesh or wicker baskets to hold accessories.
Position framed photographs that inspire you or remind you of your loved ones. Add sentimental items: rocks from a river or souvenirs from a day trip. Make this area your own special study nook.
Add color and personality
Overspending on dorm decor is one of the main ways students waste their money. Adding color and personality doesn’t have to be expensive, though. Wall decals are a great way to splash color around, since they can easily be removed at the end of the year.
Turn the hallway door into a message board with a dry-erase board, decals, and a calendar. Add spots of color with throw rugs and pillows. Cover the closet doors with fabric.
There are many ways to decorate a dorm room without spending an arm and a leg. Feel free to try something new, such as a southern California theme. You can always change your mind.
